14 Nov 5 Home Renovations for Safe Aging in Place
Aging in place is a very convenient and common choice for senior citizens.
But, before truly committing to your home as a permanent stay, you must commit to making home renovations for your safety and convenience.
These home renovations can range from being easy tasks to more complex installations of new technology in your home. All of these renovations, though, will be well worth the time and effort in the long run. Here are 5 home renovations that will help you age in place with minimal worry.
1. Open Up the Floor Space
One of the biggest dangers to aging in place is having minimal support in the case of a harsh fall. In order to prevent these situations, it is a good idea to give yourself the minimal risk of falling by clearing up extra walking space in rooms and around your house.
Some basic ways to make sure this change happens is by selling unwanted or unnecessary furniture that may give you less space to walk. You should also make sure to keep cables close to the walls and not along your floor. Use cord covers to make sure that these covers don’t cause any unnecessary tripping risk.
2. Add Traction Slips in Your Bathroom
The bathroom becomes one of the most hazardous rooms in the house when aging in place. With the added water hazard that bathrooms bring, it is important to take extra precautions for your own safety and well-being.
One step you can take is the addition of traction slips or non-skid tape. With these changes, you will have a low-cost solution to the dangers of slipping in the bathroom.
3. Lower the Temperature of your Water Heater
One common danger that senior citizens face when living alone is that of burns from scalding water.
What many don’t realize is that there is a very simple solution to this issue. By turning down the temperature of your water heater from 140 to 120 degrees, you can prevent any accidental burns when showering or washing dishes.
4. Add Extra Lighting When Aging In Place
One easy fix that will make aging life easier is to add extra lighting to your home. With a quick sweep around your home, you can start to identify what areas may need more or less light. You can remedy this issue with lighting fixtures around your house.
A solution to low lighting that is gaining traction is the use of light tape. By putting light tape on stairs, along the floor, and even in areas like cabinets or drawers, you will have a much easier, safer time at night.
5. Stair Lift or In-Home Elevator
One of the most worthwhile renovations that many seniors who live at home make is the addition of a stair lift or in-home elevator.
Stair lifts and elevators can be great as they provide an easier, stress-free alternative for seniors who struggle to climb up and down stairs.
This added mobility comes at a cost, which is the reason why so many people hesitate to install these features into their home. Luckily, there are many ways to alleviate the cost of the renovations. With lower costs and an unparalleled convenience, this technology will be a great addition to any senior citizen’s home.
What’s Next?
There’s no need to wait to make the necessary changes in order to prepare for aging in place.
From something simple like clearing up floor space to large renovations like installing a stair life, each change can help you live comfortably.
Let us help you with a free consultation for all your home renovating needs.